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2025-26 Registration FAQs

Preparatory Chorus (Grades 4-6)

 

Why should my child register?

If your child enjoys music and singing, then they should definitely consider registering for the Preparatory Chorus. Members of the Preparatory Chorus learn important musicianship skills in an encouraging environment and build self-esteem and confidence through various performance opportunities. 

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The Children's Choruses are part of the greater Cleveland Orchestra Chorus Family, and are encouraged to continue their musical journey through elementary school to high school and into adulthood. An audition is not required for membership in the Preparatory Chorus, only a completed registration form and attendance at one Meet & Greet session. 

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How does registration for the Preparatory Chorus work? 

Interested singers should complete our ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM and sign-up to attend a meet and greet session. The registration form is an application that collects  information on the singer's musical background and contact information for them and their families which will be helpful as we prepare for the season. 

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What is a Meet & Greet Session? 

We will have Meet & Greet sessions between May 6th through May 8th for the 2025-26 Season. You can sign-up to attend a session HERE. Singers and their families only need to attend one 30 minute session. 

 

Meet & Greet sessions is our brief and informal way for us to meet prospective Preparatory Chorus members and their families before the new season begins. During the session, we meet with five singers and their families as a group. We will have singers go through basic vocal exercises together to better understand their range and where singers are in their musical journey. This helps us select the music they will sing next season. In addition, we'll provide time for families to ask our Directors and staff questions and get to know each other. We find that it is nice to go into a new season with a buddy and a few familiar faces.

Singers are only accepted into the Preparatory Chorus after completing a registration form and attending a meet and greet session. 

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My child has never taken any instrumental or vocal lessons. Should they still register?

Yes! We encourage any student who loves to sing and is eager to enhance their knowledge of music to  register for the Preparatory Chorus. Private music lessons are not required to participate in any of the Cleveland Orchestra Choruses, and most choristers do not have any professional musical training.

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My child is in 6th grade. Which chorus should they join? 

Both the Preparatory Chorus and Children's Chorus accept singers in 6th grade.

 

The Preparatory Chorus focuses on establishing a solid foundation in vocal production technique and musicianship. Its members perform in 3-4 community concerts each year and rehearse for an hour and half each week.  

• For singers that may not have significant singing experience, may be nervous to audition for the Children's Chorus, or may want a slower adjustment to the Children's Choruses, registering for the Preparatory Chorus is great way to start their musical journey with our choruses and grow with other choristers.

• Eligible singers that demonstrate maturity and growth in the Fall semester may be invited to audition for the Children's Chorus in the Winter if they are interested. 

 

The Children's Chorus builds and further develops the skills learned in the Preparatory Chorus and has a more extensive rehearsal and performance schedule. For example, the current season includes three community concerts, three performances of Mahler's 3rd Symphony with The Cleveland Orchestra, and four performances of the Holiday Concerts with The Cleveland Orchestra. 

 

• If your singer has experience in solo or choral singing, can manage the schedule of the children's chorus, and feels that they are comfortable with auditioning, we recommend that they audition for the Children's Chorus. 

• For those that choose to audition for the Children's Chorus, the Directors will determine the best placement for each singer. Accepted students will be placed in the appropriate ensemble – Children’s Chorus or Preparatory Chorus – at the directors’ discretion.

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I want to learn more about the Children's Choruses. Where can I find additional information?

Our FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS page is a great place to learn more about the Children's Choruses.

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I still have more questions. Who should I contact?

Contact Angel Tyler, Children's Choruses Manager, at atyler@clevelandorchestra.com. She'll be happy to assist you.